McLaren boss Stella furious with Marko: 'More severe than cursing'

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris are in the midst of an exciting championship battle. Coming into the United States Grand Prix, Verstappen had a 52-point lead over the fast-charging Norris. After yesterday's sprint race, however, that gap has been increased to 54 points after Verstappen took victory. Still, there are six races and two sprints to go in the season, and there is still so much more drama to come over the final leg of the year. Can Lando Norris continue gaining on Max Verstappen in the, on paper, quicker McLaren? Or will Max Verstappen have a second wind and extend his lead? Time will tell, but either way, Formula 1 fans are in for a treat.

Stella left furious with Marko's comments

In conversation with Motorsport Magazin, Red Bull's Marko doubted that Norris was mentally capable of competing for the world title. Of course, Verstappen has the advantage on points, but Norris needs some more unseen qualities, according to the 81-year-old. Stella hit back at Marko, telling them that he is by no means happy with the degrading comments.

The McLaren team boss argues that Formula 1 was doing a good job of making mental health issues something which could be spoken about openly. “Then you hear what Helmut said, and it's like you destroy in a comment the work of 20 years. Max was addressed for swearing. For me, this is much more severe in terms of what a member of the F1 community has said rather than one bad word in the wrong place.” Stella concluded. McLaren will be hoping to hit back at Red Bull on the track in Austin. Norris starts the race from pole position, with Verstappen right behind in second place.

This article was written in collaboration with Cas van de Kleut

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